Lahore Qalandars snatch thrilling PSL X title with record chase against Quetta Gladiators

Lahore Qalandars snatch thrilling PSL X title with record chase against Quetta Gladiators

LAHORE – Lahore Qalandars have been crowned champions of the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) X, clinching their third title after a sensational record-breaking run-chase against Quetta Gladiators in an electrifying final at the Gaddafi Stadium. Kusal Perera’s explosive unbeaten half-century and Sikandar Raza’s stunning cameo, mere hours after playing a Test match in England, guided the Qalandars to a six-wicket victory with just one ball to spare.

Chasing a daunting target of 202 set by Quetta Gladiators, the Qalandars reached 204-4 in 19.5 overs, marking the highest successful chase in any T20 final worldwide. The Gladiators, batting first, posted a strong 201-9, largely thanks to a brilliant 76 off 43 balls from Player of the Tournament Hasan Nawaz. Lahore’s captain, Shaheen Shah Afridi, was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 3-24.

The Qalandars’ chase was anchored by valuable contributions from Mohammad Naeem (46) and Abdullah Shafique (41). However, it was the unbroken 59-run partnership between Kusal Perera (62* off 31) and Sikandar Raza (22* off 7) that turned the tide. Raza, who arrived at the stadium just 10 minutes before the toss after playing for Zimbabwe in a Test match against England that concluded a day early, proved to be the man for the crisis. He hit a six and a four off consecutive deliveries in Faheem Ashraf’s final over to seal the historic win.

Quetta Gladiators’ captain Saud Shakeel rued missed opportunities but praised his team’s journey and Hasan Nawaz’s talent. Lahore Qalandars’ skipper Shaheen Afridi credited his team’s collective effort and lauded Raza’s commitment, stating, “I told him that you came here for a purpose which is to help us win the trophy.”

Kusal Perera was named Player of the Match for his match-winning knock. While Hasan Nawaz won Player of the Tournament, other key awardees included Shaheen Afridi as leading wicket-taker and bowler of the tournament, and Sikandar Raza as the all-rounder of the tournament. The victory marks Lahore Qalandars’ continued dominance in the PSL, securing their third trophy, all under Afridi’s captaincy.

budget 2025-26

Government Plans Rs 500-600 Billion in New Taxes for FY 2025-26

Government Plans Rs 500-600 Billion in New Taxes for FY 2025-26; FBR Target Likely Rs 14.3 Trillion

ISLAMABAD – The government is planning to introduce new taxes amounting to approximately Rs 500 to 600 billion in the upcoming fiscal year 2025-26. The Federal Board of Revenue’s (FBR) target is expected to be set between Rs 14.1 to 14.3 trillion, marking a 16 to 18 percent increase compared to the previous year.

Key proposed tax measures include:

  • Taxation of Digital Earners: Income of freelancers, YouTubers, and vloggers will be brought into the tax net. The Institute of Cost and Management Accountants (ICMAP) has proposed a 3.5% tax on social media income, potentially generating Rs 52.5 billion.

  • Tax on High Pensions: A tax ranging from 2.5% to 5% is proposed for individuals receiving a monthly pension exceeding Rs 400,000.

  • GST on Consumption Basis: General Sales Tax (GST) on sugar and other commodities will now be levied based on rates published by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS).

  • Increased FED on Processed Foods: A 20% increase in Federal Excise Duty (FED) is anticipated on ultra-processed foods (e.g., fast food, packaged foods), with a target to raise it to 50% by 2030.

  • Higher Taxes on Tobacco: Further taxes will be imposed on cigarettes and other tobacco products, alongside a proposal for introducing new health taxes.

  • Restrictions on Non-Filers: Under Section 114C, non-filers may be barred from significant transactions like purchasing vehicles or property.

  • Petroleum Levy Hike: The Petroleum Development Levy (PDL) will be increased by Rs 5 per liter on both petrol and diesel. PDL is also likely to be imposed on furnace oil.

  • Retailer Tax Collection: A minimum of Rs 295 billion is to be collected from retailers, in line with IMF directives.

  • FED on Agro-Inputs: Over Rs 30 billion is targeted through increased FED on fertilizers and pesticides.

  • Withdrawal of GST Exemptions: GST exemptions provided to various sectors, including FATA/PATA, may be withdrawn.

  • Increased GST on Luxury Goods: GST on luxury items such as aircraft, precious jewelry, and high-end mobile phones is expected to rise.

Potential relief measures being considered include:

  • Tax relief for the salaried class and the real estate sector.

  • A proposal to reduce duties on vehicle imports and set the age limit for imported vehicles at 5 years.

  • Subsidies on housing finance are also under consideration to facilitate affordable housing.

Pakistan's Bano Kusar Strikes Gold at Asian Ju-Jitsu Championship 2025, Defeating Indian Rival

Pakistan’s Bano Kusar Strikes Gold at Asian Ju-Jitsu Championship 2025, Defeating Indian Rival

Pakistan’s Bano Kusar clinched a gold medal at the Asian Ju-Jitsu Championship 2025, currently underway in Jordan, by defeating her Indian opponent in a decisive final.

The Pakistani Ju-Jitsu team has demonstrated remarkable prowess, overcoming strong competitors including India. On the third day of the event, Bano Kusar triumphed in the women’s 48kg category, defeating India’s Richa Sharma to secure the gold. This victory is not only a moment of pride for Pakistan but also sends a strong message at the regional level.

Earlier, on the first day, Pakistan’s M. Ali Rashid and M. Yousaf Ali secured a bronze medal in the Duo Men’s category, while Isra Waseem and Kainat Arif won bronze in the Duo Women’s category, concluding a successful day for Pakistan.

Mr. Khalil Ahmed Khan, Chairman of the Pakistan Ju-Jitsu Federation, expressed his elation at the team’s success, stating, “These are not just medals; they are proof that Pakistani athletes are second to none on the global stage. We are proud of our team, and these achievements are a testament to the hard work of coaches, players, and all support staff.”

Mr. Tariq Ali, Secretary-General of the Pakistan and South Asian Regional Ju-Jitsu Association, represented the South Asian region and Pakistan at the closing ceremony. He remarked, “Pakistan’s victories are a significant step towards promoting Ju-Jitsu in South Asia, especially in Pakistan. The spirit and courage displayed by our female and young athletes are commendable and exemplary.”

The Asian Ju-Jitsu Championship, featuring top fighters from across Asia, will continue until May 26. Team Pakistan is now focused on securing more medals.

COAS Hosts Dinner Honoring Political Leadership

COAS hosts dinner honoring political leadership

A dinner was hosted by Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, NI(M), Chief of Army Staff, to honour the political leadership, steadfast commitment of the Armed Forces, and the indomitable spirit of the people of Pakistan as demonstrated during Marka-e-Haq, Operation Bunyanum Marsoos.

The distinguished gathering was graced by the Honourable President of Pakistan, Mr. Asif Ali Zardari; the Honourable Prime Minister, Mr. Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif; Deputy Prime Minister/ Foreign Minister; Chairman Senate; Speaker National Assembly; Federal Ministers; Governors; Chief Ministers; Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee; Chief of Air & Naval Staff; senior leadership of major political parties; high-ranking government officials; and senior officers from the three Services.

Participants paid tribute to the sagacious leadership that steered the nation through a defining moment, hailed the courage and sacrifice of the Armed Forces, and commended the resolute patriotism of the Pakistani people.

In his remarks, the Chief of Army Staff expressed profound gratitude to the political leadership for their strategic foresight during Marka-e-Haq and lauded the seamless inter-services coordination that ensured operational success in Operation Bunyanum Marsoos.

He further acknowledged the unwavering role of Pakistani youth and media in countering the disinformation campaign waged by India, describing them as a ‘steel wall’ against malign propaganda. The COAS also commended the outstanding contributions of Pakistani scientists, engineers, and diplomats, whose professionalism and resolve proved critical during the conflict.

The evening stood as a powerful affirmation of national unity and the collective resolve to advance with renewed strength and cohesion.